Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Measuring Heroes and Villains

I am a writer of action-adventure fiction. My stories are parables. My characters are examples of personalities interacting. Life and death are the themes my characters demonstrate. The struggle of good against evil is the defining aspect of these themes. Evil against evil is relevant in that such is entirely contrary to the nature of good. How a character measures the value of lives determines whether that character is "heroic" or "villainous."

A "hero" in modern fiction is a good person of uncanny prowess. A "bystander" or "Red Shirt" is an inconsequential nonentity character presumed to be "good." The "hero" is inclined to protect and avenge, whether reluctantly or wholeheartedly, the helpless "bystander." The "hero" cares about the expendable "Red Shirts" who accompany him into danger and is upset when they are expended.

A "villain" in fiction is an evil person as an antagonist. His indifference becomes malevolence and must be dealt with. Such a character may or may not employ minions. His thugs may vary in prowess between formidable elites and plentiful cannon-fodder. Regardless, those who serve him are an expendable resource in the pursuit of his agenda.

A "hero" is a "hero" when the lives of others are what he is fighting for. A "villain" is a "villain" when the lives of others are an expendable resource. Even if a hero is reluctant to help, if he helps, he is a hero. Even if a villain believes in the righteousness of his agenda, his willingness to sacrifice others vilifies him. Yes, a hero may lead other men to their deaths but only to save lives. A villain esteems notions more precious than the lives that serve him. Alas, good and evil are demonstrated beyond the subjective fancies of "right" or "wrong."

Also I wish to add of the staggering numbers that the arch villain attains concerning henchmen. This is often mirrored in everyday life. Evil always attracts a flock, and unfortunately, it is a many times large flock than the hero usually gets. In fact, the hero sometimes attracts no one and is essentially alone. Nevertheless, the hero has what it takes to win the fight.

There are more evil people in the world than good. Evil generally flock together. Where it is possible that heroes will attract others as well, it is often only to the degree that they inspire others. However, there are a very few times when one desires to fight the good fight is as much as the hero and that is where you find your sidekicks and partners. Life mirrors this as well.

The point of it all is this: Where there is more evil in the world, the pitiful numbers of good is all that it takes to thwart such villainy. It is just as real in fiction as it is in life.

About Me

I am a writer and an artist who specializes in violent erotica; specifically, the slaughtering of useless henchwomen. I am also a recreational student of history, archaeology, genetics and physics. My residence is coastal North Carolina and my life is family and friends.